🪵 Last in Line: Totem Pole Tales of Humble Beginnings 🚶♂️
Ever felt like the “last in line” and wondered what kind of wood your life’s story carved? The phrase “last in line” is as ubiquitous as it is humbly humorous, often referring to the lowest-ranking or least important member of a group. Let’s delve into this overplayed metaphor and give it a brand-new varnish of understanding!
Origin and History: The humorist H. Allen Smith popularized this phrase as the title of a book in 1941. Smith, who had been “victim” to the humorously jabbing introduction given by radio comedian Fred Allen, laughed last by incorporating this label in his book title. Despite the misleading implications associated with the lowest position on an actual totem pole, the term ’last in line’ rapidly soared to cliché status. In genuine totem pole tradition, the bottom figure often holds significant importance, bursting the myths that position equates to rank.
Related Phrases and Idioms:
- Back of the pack: At the end or trailing behind in a group.
- Bottom of the barrel: The least desirable items or members left after the best have been taken.
- Low man on the totem pole: The least important or lowest-ranking person in a group (a direct synonym).
- The short end of the stick: Receiving less than what is just in a situation.
Synonyms:
- Underling
- Subordinate
- Junior member
- Trainee
Antonyms:
- Leader
- Chief
- Foremost
- Principal
Humor-filled Quote:
“No one wants to be the caboose when they could be the engine—but remember, it’s the caboose that holds the party snacks!” ~ P.C. Peckingorder
Proverbs and Sayings:
- “The last shall be first, and the first last.” (Biblical reference, Matthew 20:16)
- “Every seat has wear value, and even the backbenchers will contribute some day!”
Literature, Songs, and Movies:
-
Books:
- Nobody’s Perfect by H. Allen Smith
- Loser by Jerry Spinelli
-
Songs:
- “Under Pressure” by Queen & David Bowie
- “Let It Be” by The Beatles
-
Movies:
- The Pursuit of Happyness (2006) - Proving that starting low doesn’t mean staying there.
- Rudy (1993) - The tale of a last-in-line overachiever.
Inspirational, Thought-Provoking Farewell:
Whether you find yourself “last in line” on a moments’ notice or a metaphorical totem pole dweller, remember that positions can be transient. Your importance isn’t defined by rank but by the impact you make—so sharpen your humor, embrace the nuance, and never forget: carvings can be changed, and so can fortunes! 🚶♂️💕
Stay intrigued, educated, and thoroughly entertained!
